Perfect for me Colt.

[og556]

Hey guys I had a poll up in another part of this forum trying to decide between a glock 21 SF and Colt 1911 for self defense, home defense, and target shooting. Now I need to figure out which Colt is something good to start off with. I am willing to spend up to $1500 for this handgun if necessary but would rather have some extra for ammo and accessories. I would like to have a .45 1911 which has little to NO MIM parts, EXTREMELY RELIABLE, accurate out of the box, and the least amount of recoil (open to modding ideas for that one). I would also like a Colt with an internal ejector for obvious reason. I was also looking for something I could get in a dark grey finish so I would also appreciate any advice on that. Thanks guys.

[John]

All 1911s have internal ejectors! So far at least. The external part can be the extractor, but Colt doesn't offer these (thank God). My suggestion, if you want a Colt: Go with the blue Combat Commander.

[Hunter]

Depending on what features you are looking for such as adjustable or fixed sights, finish, caliber, and how much money you want to spend I would either look at the 1991 or Gold Cup Trophy.
If you prefer no Series 80 parts that Series 70 Repo would be an excellent option.

[elijdub]

I'm with John...although Hunter makes a perfectly rational argument for another model, i am absolutely "hooked" on the Blue Commander for now (keep in mind that i'm not in a rational state!..i WANT a new Colt!).
In all seriousness, there are many options available on different models and series', offered by Colt. I'm just learning about alot of this myself..and the Coltmfg site has alot of this info laid out in a fairly discernable format. If you can narrow down your options a bit, I (who am by no means a pro) could probably help out with a decision....and there are others here on the forum who can offer alot more.
Good luck,
eli

[c pierce]

My xse comander is a tack driver at 25yards, And very easy to carry concealed.

[DuckRyder]

We really need to know what features you want.

Based on the other 1911 you mentioned the most similar feature set is a O1980XSE or O1070XSE. The 1980 is Blued, and the 1070 is Stainless with polished flats and matte rounds.

The 1991 series is very nice as well, and are more traditional in appearance and a little cheaper. The models would be O1991 (Blue) and O1091 (Stainless)

I have 2 XSE's, and a 1991 and my Blued 1991 is my favorite.

[dakota1911]

I would look for a range, even if it is a little bit of travel where you might rent and try a few types of the guns. Look at what feels good and you can hit with.

[og556]

Hey guys sorry for not being more specific but I just spent some time doing a little more research and I have narrowed it down to two options (if I can find them in stock anywhere) I want either the Colt Special Combat Govt. ($1500 give or take) or the Colt Gold Cup Trophy (SS @ around $900). I was wondering if you guys could tell me what the difference is between these two and which would be the most reliable. Is the price difference worth it ? My only gripe with either one is the finish is not what I like. I want a dark matte grey or black finish on my 1911 and will eventually have that on either one but will not sacrifice quality for it to look exactly like what I want. Thanks every one.

[Hunter]

I can attest to the quality of the Gold Cup Trophy. I have one that is my primary carry pistol. That Colt runs like a sewing machine. She feeds everything I have tried and I have shot some nice 100 yard groups with it. My current favorite Colt is my GCT.
I am in the process of getting myself a Special Combat Government so I cannot tell you how they shoot. I have seen Larry Starling's SCG and I was impressed enough to order one in Super .38.
Either way you will have a fine piece of hardware.

[wichaka]

Also rest assure, Colt uses less MIM parts than anyone.

[twin oaks]

Though the full size isn't as easily concealed, I have a 1991A1 (stock set up)that eats anything, and with match ammo will print SAME (not just single) hole groups at up to 25 yards. With factory ammo, it'll print 1" out to 20 yards. No feed, ejection, or ftrb probs at all. So much for accuracy and reliability. It comes in matte blue that looks parkerized. Look at the pic posted in my thread " Curious". Same model pistol. Mods you can do yourself include EGW fps, drop in beavertail ( hammer change too)[ there's a thread on this, too]and most oversized things like slide release, tactical mag release, etc. The EGW fps should take care of recoil for you (read the sticky on that one).
Note: Get a good holster for it, and stay away from plastic. Slightly loose fitting kydex will eat the finish right off.
Good choice on Colt.

[dakota1911]

Although I would like to see Hunters 100 yard groups, pick any of the above, practice, and shoot it well.

[twin oaks]

Didn't mean to rant, just to offer that '91a1 seems to fit your requirements with fewer changes.

[Hunter]

Although I would like to see Hunters 100 yard groups, pick any of the above, practice, and shoot it well.
Here is a link to a thread I posted a while back of 2 of my 100 yard groups with my GCT.
http://forum.m1911.org/showthread.php?t=23765&highlight=1911+accuracy+yards

[d90king]

Here is a link to a thread I posted a while back of 2 of my 100 yard groups with my GCT.
http://forum.m1911.org/showthread.php?t=23765&highlight=1911+accuracy+yards


Hunter,
That is tremendous shooting, even from a rest . :D I would need a uhaul truck to sight up from a 100 yards I think :o Now with my LE6920 then maybe I could hang with you ;)
Patrick

[Mick_In_Texas]

I used to think I couldn't afford Colt's. Now, I have FOUR: a USGI 1911 from 1918, a 38 Super Government Model, an O1991A1, and an O1911 WWI Repro. I also have two Springers, and one RIA.
Colt's builds a FINE gun. All mine are EXCELLENT, including that First Lady, the USGI government contract 1911 from the mid to late 1918 production run.
They are SOLID. They FEEL different than my also-beloved Springers and RIA. I prefer a meat and potatoes 1911 platform; so the Series 70 would be my preference, in any 1911. I don't think you can beat a Colt's, really... My next one, if I am blessed and lucky, will be the Series 70 Repro Colt's.
Bro Hunter knows the Colt's, as do other members here. It depends on what you want, sir. I have nothing against quality foreign-made firearms: I had two Berettas that were Italian-made, and actually my two Springers, a Mil-Spec and GI45, as well as my Taurus PT92AF, are Brazillian-made, all excellent firearms. My Rock Island Armory is Phillipine, also an EXCELLET firearm. That said, though, my COLT'S are "different". GOOD different.
I came to the .45 ACP with my Ruger P90--and Ruger is a very GOOD gun--but I do believe if you love .45 ACP as I do, you will eventually come to the 1911 platform, and eventually, after that, you will start looking at the Colt's 1911s. I have nothing against the "high ends", such as Ed Brown, Kimbers, Night Hawks, whichever; but, I have limited cash flow and a Texas handgun license and a love of the 1911. Regardless of which Colt's model you choose, according to your tastes, and preferences, I don't think you can go wrong, sir.
Just my opinion from experience. Y'all be safe.
Mick

[d90king]

Og556,

I must say that you apear all over the board with regards to NEEDS and how it will be used. Every pistol you have mentioned has somewhat unique strenghts and minor upgrades. Also you have mentioned reliability often. I think you will find that all Colt's are reliable period, not one being better then the other ;). Now to the different models you have spoken of. The SCG's are tremendous pistols in every way and is the only one that gives you, in my opinion, a proper beavertail. Because of that, it is a very easy pistol to get a good grip with proper seating. The SCG in Super 38 is a amazing pistol that I would put up against "customs" costing double the price. The 45's are great too. I have just found personally, that I gravitate more to my two-tone Super 38 than my HC 45's . All that being said tho, I am not sure that is necessarily the pistol I would want next to my bed or in the study. Now the range is a different story because that is exactly what the pistol has been built for, precision. The Gold Cup Trophy is essentialy the same minus some of the upgrades of the SCG and as Hunter will tell you is a GREAT pistol (boy I wish you could get that in Super 38). That said, I prefer my blued GCT because of the flat top and difference in sights and they also did a amazing job on these pistols blueing color and texture. I will also say that the XSE GVT is a great set up that has a very modern 1911 look and the three dot sights are a bit quicker on target for me. You could save a buck and have every thing that you asked for in your post (these are the pistols in my car and in the study). Just think with the savings you could spend a couple extra bucks and also get one of the last WW1's and I think thats as close to grey as you are going to get :D

Good luck

Patrick

[OD*]

I have FOUR: a USGI 1911 from 1918, a 38 Super Government Model, an O1991A1, and an O1911 WWI Repro.
Mick, did you ever call Colt and see when your Super .38 was actually made? I think you mean 1991, Colt hasn't made the 1991A1 in several years. ;)

[Hunter]

Hunter,
That is tremendous shooting, even from a rest . :D I would need a uhaul truck to sight up from a 100 yards I think :o Now with my LE6920 then maybe I could hang with you ;)
Patrick
Thanks Patrick but really it is not as hard as you think. I was skeptical myself until I tried. I feel sure you could get them in the circle as well. Sorry if I hijacked the thread.

[JustinTime]

I have a special combat government and an officers match which really is a renamed Gold cup. Both pistols slides move like they're on ball bearings (butter smooth). I haven't shot the officers match yet but the Special combat government is as nice as any custom 1911 I've handled. The Special combat government is completely accurized by colt. That doesn't mean it will be more accurate for you that a GCT. The SCG has an ambidextrious safety where the GCT has a single side safety. The SCG also has a Smith and alexander mainspring housing which incorporates an extended beveled magwell. The SCG has traditional cocking serrations compared to the GCT's Kimber style cocking serrations. So you see there are a lot of custom little parts that make it inevitably cost more. Plus it is a custom shop gun...so I wouldn't really choose it if your going to modify features or finish on it. To be honest with you I wouldn't modify anything on either of these two choices. If you want to customize a Colt just how you want it I suggest the 1991 model. Or you could look for a used colt on gun auction sites and find one with the finish that has some wear on it.

[Hunter]

n. The Gold Cup Trophy is essentialy the same minus some of the upgrades of the SCG and as Hunter will tell you is a GREAT pistol (boy I wish you could get that in Super 38). That said, I prefer my blued GCT because of the flat top and difference in sights and they also did a amazing job on these pistols blueing color and texture.
Patrick
Patrick you are so right. I would love a GCT in a Super .38! Man I am so in love with my GCT in .45 ACP, what a pistol.
I am in the process of finding a hard chrome SCG in Super .38.

[Mick_In_Texas]

Mick, did you ever call Colt and see when your Super .38 was actually made? I think you mean 1991, Colt hasn't made the 1991A1 in several years. ;)

My third Colt was the O1991, not the O1991A1. Either way, still an excellent gun, and one that I want to take to my dad's in a week and do a little more firing with!

No, OD*, I'd forgotten... I've made a note to do that this week, and will let y'all know in re: my 38 Super Government Model.

And by the way, ALL: while I LOVE the .45ACP round, the .38 Super--at least in the above pistol--is a FANTASTIC, very viable caliber for the 21st century! Stable, very flat trajectory, follow-up to place shots in 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 inch tight group out of the box at 25 yds. dead-on... Mine seemed to have a heckuva muzzle flash, but felt recoil and muzzle climb to the right about the same as my .45-chambered pistols. I bought the .38 just for the history of the round in association with the 1911 platform, but, I'm GLAD I did. I've even carried it a couple of times, out on the back roads looking for things to photograph... that was a hard decision for this ol' .45 ACP lover!!! But, the .38 Super, in a good pistol, WORKS for what I want it to do out in the open, for sure. I'll carry it way before I'll carry my 9mm, NOW.

Y'all take care.
Mick

[daveohno]

I have the SCG in Super 38, the trigger is the best of all my Colt's. I don't have a trigger gauge, but I would guess it's somewhere between 3 and 4 pounds.

My favorite Colt's to shoot are my full size Gunsite Pistols. Blue and Stainless. The stainless has night sites.

My favorite Colt's to look at, are my Bright Stainless Super 38, Bright Stainless 45 acp and Bright Stainless 4" Python. I like the Bright Pimp Finish the best.

If I were going to buy a new pistol, right now, I would either consider a SCG if I wanted a range type pistol.

If I wanted a carry pistol, I'd probably go with a Series 70 repro with the model "O" package added. It would make the pistol very much like a Colt Gunsite pistol.

[Mick_In_Texas]

If I wanted a carry pistol, I'd probably go with a Series 70 repro with the model "O" package added. It would make the pistol very much like a Colt Gunsite pistol.

From folks here, I'm thinking my next gun may be the Colt's Series 70 Repro. I LOVE a Series 70 Colt's. While I can live with the Series 80 firing pin block... my oldest and newest Colt's (USGI and O1911) are "Series 70", while my "middle two" are Series 80 (38 Super Govt Model, O1991).

While I reckon I don't NEED another gun... on the other hand, to me a law-abiding citizen cannot have TOO MANY guns. I'd really like to have my work buddy's Mark IV Govt, which is a 70. Lacking that... the Series 70 Repro... uh, huh, there you go. Hot for that one. I guess I'm by majority a Colt's guy...

Y'all take care.
Mick

[daveohno]

Well, I must admit I am a Colt guy to an extreme. I love all my Colt's! Wheelguns and 1911's. I have about an equal number of both. I'm waiting on the new Concealed Carry to come out so I can buy that one too.

I have other pistols, but when it's range time, the bag gets loaded with Colt's!

[d90king]

Does anybody know if there will be any variations with the new Colt Carry?

Thanks
Patrick

[Mick_In_Texas]

Mick, did you ever call Colt and see when your Super .38 was actually made? I think you mean 1991, Colt hasn't made the 1991A1 in several years. ;)

Was sick today, hopefully got some medication called in from my doc. At any rate, felt better this afternoon; this is what my 38 Super Government Model Series 80 looks like now, black pearl grips to match the trigger and sights:

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d54/Mick_In_Texas/b28cbf92.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d54/Mick_In_Texas/08443cdb.jpg

I'm going to be covered up at work tomorrow, having been out most of the week last week for business travel; but, I've got Colt's phone number for cs back, and I'm going to try to find out what the "heritage" is on my 38 Super. You may know: it's S/N 38SS0022XX. It's a beauty, as much as I LOVE .45 ACP. I'm thinking it and my O1991 may be the two to ride with me this weekend. I found out from my third Colt's, the O1991, and my fourth, the O1911 WWI Repro, that they don't include the blue warranty cards like my 38 had, since 1999; now, they just have the limited lifetime warranty. My O1991 and O1911 didn't have the warranty cards; my 38 did. I got it late last year at auction. It was new in box. But, must've been "boxed" for a WHILE... It's a fine firearm.

Looked at the Colt's Custom Government Carry today on their commercial webside; THAT is a BEAUTY. Not too much of a fan of the skeletonized trigger and hammer or the beavertail grip safety, but had I a lot of disposable income... THAT one would be a consideration. ALSO noticed that their custom shop does three or four types of engraving... IS there NO end to the TEMPTATION??? with this platform??? LOL... I like the B level, American engraving, semi-automatic pistols... tempting, tempting, tempting. My O1911, never. My 38 Super or my O1991??? Hmmmmmm... While the 38 is kinda a "quirk" gun for me... between it and a 9mm, especially since it's a 1911 platform, in a bind, give me the 38 Super in a 1911 over my Taurus PT92AF. Or my GP100 with .38 Specials... Same caliber, roughly same bullet speeds, love the 1911. There you go.

Y'all take care and be safe.
Mick

[Mick_In_Texas]

Does anybody know if there will be any variations with the new Colt Carry?

Thanks
Patrick

Don't know. It's a fine looking pistol, just like it is, to me: 5" Govt, but with the beavertail grip safety, skeletonized trigger and hammer. Finish, BEAUTIFUL: ss frame, blued slide. I could live with a regular trigger, grip safety, and hammer; but looks like you could get Colt's to build you one like you like it. "WhatAColt's", with my apologies to WhatABurger in Texas. I got to panting over the custom shop engraving, for my current Colt's, myself.

Here, thanks to the forum of John's, I'm also considering a 4" model, what is that, the Commander or Officer? I LOVE the full size, and can carry it comfortably... but, also, as much as I love the .45 ACP, I also love the .38 Super in my Colt's Govt platform. I've always loved ANYTHING you folks have, but I've also opened my mind to variations for my personal use, finances permitting... I've got 7 full size 1911s which all fit my Galco and my Horseshoe Leather, and my Springer XD Xtreme Duty Yaqui; but, a "shorty" .45 ACP may be in my medium future... Too many beauties, not enough funds! LOL...

Y'all take care and be safe.
Mick

[OD*]

But, must've been "boxed" for a WHILE... It's a fine firearm.
It may have been around for awhile Mick, but Colt was not using the rollmarkings like your Super .38 has eight years ago, so it can't be that old. If you want to PM me the complete serial number, I'll call Colt tomorrow.

[Mick_In_Texas]

It may have been around for awhile Mick, but Colt was not using the rollmarkings like your Super .38 has eight years ago, so it can't be that old. If you want to PM me the complete serial number, I'll call Colt tomorrow.

I reckon she ain't TOO old; but, apparently isn't manufacture since mid 1999. Because she had the warranty registration card, which I DID send off. No real probs with her, though.

Y'all take care.
Mick

[OD*]

But you have no idea how long that warranty registration card had been sitting around, I'm sure Colt has the information packets (owners manual etc.) made up long before they stick them in the case/box. Did your Super .38 come in a cardboard box or the blue plastic case?

[DuckRyder]

My Match Target 6700 (Manufactured 2000) and O1070XSE (Manufactured 2003) both had warranty cards with them.

It was my understanding that these did not need to be returned?

[OD*]

That's correct, Duck.

From Colt's site;
http://www.coltsmfg.com/cmci/lifetime_agreement.asp

[Mick_In_Texas]

But you have no idea how long that warranty registration card had been sitting around, I'm sure Colt has the information packets (owners manual etc.) made up long before they stick them in the case/box. Did your Super .38 come in a cardboard box or the blue plastic case?

Case: standard blue plastic case, just like my O1991. What got me on the warranty card, was that my O1991 had everything BUT the warranty card... I called Colt's about that, and the lady made that statement about the limited lifetime warranty. In the case of the cards... as in Duck's case... and this may apply to my .38 Super... obviously those "packets" were being placed in guns shipped some time after the limited lifetime warranty went into effect. So, my Super .38 may not be that old, after all...

OD*: more in PM to you in re the 38.

Y'all take care.
Mick

[d90king]

My Match Target 6700 (Manufactured 2000) and O1070XSE (Manufactured 2003) both had warranty cards with them.

It was my understanding that these did not need to be returned?


Duck I dont think thay it matters anymore because of the warranty that is on the pistol. Also the pistol is returned by your Colt dealer to Colt for repair not you personally. When I have sent a couple back I am not sure they even provided personal info to Colt when sending it in for repair.

Patrick

[OD*]

Patrick,

If you need to send a firearm back to the manufacturer for repair or customization etc., you can send it yourself, you don't have to go through a dealer.

(edit: that is if you send via a private carrier, such as Fed/Ex, UPS. If you use USPS, handguns must be shipped FFL to FFL)

[d90king]

Patrick,

If you need to send a firearm back to the manufacturer for repair or customization etc., you can send it yourself, you don't have to go through a dealer.

(edit: that is if you send via a private carrier, such as Fed/Ex, UPS. If you use USPS, handguns must be shipped FFL to FFL)

OD they also for some reason PREFER that you send it via a Colt facility. They state that you will face undo delay if you choose to do it yourself. On top of the shipping issues it truly is the way they have set it up. I think you will find this maybe even in current manuals.

Patrick

[OD*]

First I've heard this Patrick. I've sent three pistols back this last year (one, just two weeks ago) and it never came up. I don't believe Colt even has service centers anymore.


From the Colt web site
How do I send my firearm to Colt for repair?
A Colt customer is always welcome to return a firearm for repairs at any time. Please ship via United Parcel Service (insured) to: CMC, Attention: Product Service, 2 Talcott Rd., West Hartford, CT 06110. Before doing so, please check local and state regulations.

[OD*]

Case: standard blue plastic case, just like my O1991
OK, I'm pretty certain your pistol isn't all that old. Colt went from the cardboard boxes, to the brown plastic case (for a short time) to the current blue cases.

[DuckRyder]

Mick,

They will give you the year of manufacture over the phone at no charge.

Give them another call. ;)

[OD*]

Mick, your Super .38 was made in 2006.

[Mick_In_Texas]

Mick, your Super .38 was made in 2006.

So: we were correct! Turns out it's not that old at all... I've got a passel of those plastic cases, nowadays, Colt, Springer, my old Ruger P90. I'm glad to know this, for some reason, in re: the .38... It is a beauty of a 1911. Still feel odd about its caliber, it's like to me a 1911 is synonymous with ".45 ACP"; but, on the other hand, from you and some others here, I know the .38 Super round is part of the platform's, and Colt's, history in the mid- to late-1920s. And I cannot argue with the performance on the range that I've seen from this one.

I still strongly favor the .45 versions I have, but, I am really glad I did buy this one. Not many folks I work with or know, really have ever seen a .38 Super in the platform, although a few are aware of its existence... so, she's kinda a conversation starter! On the range, one guy was taken aback that I had 3 1911s with me, one the .38 Super. Local folks are always fascinated by my love of and the carry of the .45 ACP, and the 1911 platform.

My traveling guns this weekend will be her and the O1991. My San Antonio carry was the O1911 Repro: knew she'd mostly hide out in my motel room during the day, not really be holstered during my stay. She's a good reliable firearm, as well... but, pretty special to me, not one of my main carry guns.

I so love this place. OD*, many others, well... I'm so glad I came here several months before I bought my first 1911. This place has helped me make some good choices within my financial means, and find sources for my Colts, which are rare as hen's teeth on the shelf in Aggieland... although a Gander Mountain is a-comin' soon, reckon we'll see what they stock...

Y'all take care.
Mick

[og556]

Hey guys I found a series 80 Gold Cup Trophy for about $970 brand new (Matte Stainless Steel). I have to say I love the sights on this thing and the trigger pull is amazing. The finish on this thing is absolutely beautiful. I was wondering what the difference between this and the series 70 varient would be ? The only thing I dont like about this handgun is the price (haha) and the fact that those sights dont look like they will play well with a holster or do any thing for me at night. They also had a couple of other Colt's in the $600-$700 price range, blued 1911 GI (8 round magazine ?). I am not sure which one to go for. Is the GCT really worth that price difference and would you guys recommend it to someone who is new to 1911's ? Or for my first 1911 should I go for a less expensive 1911 GI ? There was also something funny about that 1911, on the manual it said it was a Mk.IV, what does that mean ? Thanks guys and I appreciate how patient every one has been with me.

[elijdub]

I so love this place. OD*, many others, well... I'm so glad I came here several months before I bought my first 1911. This place has helped me make some good choices within my financial means, and find sources for my Colts, ......
Y'all take care.
Mick

I agree whole-heartedly! I've learned more about 1911's in the last 6 months than i have in the last 20 years of shooting!
Much thanks to the knowledge-base on the forum...
Eli

[og556]

I think the question I should really be asking is whether the series 80 is as reliable as the series 70. I read the sticky on the series 80 and the additional parts. Also does the series 80 have more MIM parts ? Thanks again.

[OD*]

I was wondering what the difference between this and the series 70 varient would be ?
These four parts;
http://mysite.verizon.net/od45/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/series80safety.jpg

http://members.cox.net/rtset/45samp6.jpg

[og556]

When doing a detailed strip on a series 80 would these parts make it harder to field strip this handgun and also have they effected reliability in the 1911 platform ? My buddy keeps telling me to get that double stack para ordinance 1911 haha. Thanks.

[OD*]

When doing a detailed strip on a series 80 would these parts make it harder to field strip this handgun
In field stripping, no sir, not at all. Now, it does make detail stripping a little more difficult until you get accustomed to the additional parts.

also have they effected reliability in the 1911 platform ?
Not in my experience, and I've been shooting a Series 80 of one form or another since 1984.

[og556]

Thank you OD you have been very helpful. Now my next goal is to figure out whether I can get higher capacity magazines that dont protrude from this weapon's handle too much.

[OD*]

You're very welcome sir.

Wilson's offers an 8 rounder that is nearly flush, except for the bumper pad, I don't recall the model number right now, but they are the ones that come with the Colt Gunsites.

[daveohno]

I ordered extra magazines from Gunsite with the pistol. The ones that come with the pistol have very thin basepads, the extras that I ordered have a thicker basepad.

[elijdub]

Wilson's offers an 8 rounder that is nearly flush, except for the bumper pad, I don't recall the model number right now, but they are the ones that come with the Colt Gunsites.

http://www.wilsoncombat.com/a_magazines.asp
Here is a list of all the WC mags. I have a couple of each of the "47D's" and
"47DC's". I prefer the DC's, which have the lower profile steel (non-pollymer) bumper. For whatever reason i have more success with them in terms of mag-related feed issues, etc. They're all high-quality, IMHO,...i'm just splitting hairs here. I just like the lower profile more than anything.
BTW, both are 8 rounders.